[ OutsideIN ] Rupi Dhillon | DAAL | Window residency

DAAJ

Rupi Dhillon

April 14th 2021 - May 14th 2021

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Paying homage to The Quarter’s previous use as a Bridal Store, Rupi Dhillon will transform this space from Bridal Store to Cultural Space, activated by a month long performance entitled ‘DAAJ’. During the month-long residency, Rupi will assemble a quilt composed of 21 Indian bridal outfits that formed part of her dowry during marriage. Despite the legal issues associated with dowry in India, laws continue to be misused. As a British Punjabi woman, Rupi uses her practice to critique patriarchal customs inherent in both her cultures. She states “I own a British passport but grew up in Punjab and therefore hold an OCI (Overseas Citizen of India). When migrating to the UK my family like many others packed and carried over patriarchal customs and traditions created to oppress women. Whilst I fully support retaining cultural identity when migrating to foreign lands, I cannot support the perpetuating oppression of any woman.” Whilst unpacking and disassembling these gowns, Rupi hopes to question and critique dowry customs that are often patriarchal, women’s work and the underpaid needle workers of South Asia, as well as using this space to take part in her own radical healing.

This is the first funded window residency in Asylum Artist Quarters new venue 'The Quarter'.